Graduating student taking picture with family and friends

Families & Guests

Ceremonies & Events

There are many events throughout Commencement Week, and each school honors its graduates through its own Class Days, graduation ceremonies, and events.

The entire University community also comes together for University Commencement to celebrate all of the graduates from Columbia's nineteen schools, colleges, and affiliate institutions including Barnard College and Teachers College.

Ceremonies & Events

View the Schedule of Events

The President of the University gives remarks and officially confers degrees on the graduates. This is a long-standing tradition and a memorable and celebratory event.

Ticket Information

Tickets are required for most ceremonies, including the University Commencement ceremony. All graduating students who wish to participate in the University Commencement ceremony are required to register and to obtain guest tickets, if desired. Only graduating students are able to request tickets and they will receive regular emails from their individual school with information on how to do this.

Disability Services does not require special tickets to receive support. Columbia University is committed to making the events and activities of Commencement Week accessible to all graduates and guests. Learn more about available accommodations and support.

Plan Your Visit

Below is a list of resources that should prove helpful when planning your visit to campus. You may also reference our FAQs. If you have any additional questions, please contact the Commencement Office.

*As we gather to celebrate our graduating students, we strongly recommend ceremony participants and guests refrain from bringing balloons, sky lanterns, and other celebratory embellishments to Commencement events. We hope to work together as a community to reduce waste, avoid potential tree entanglements, and provide an unobstructed and positive experience for all our graduates and guests.